holiday celebrations Archives - Greenwald and Gerke Real Estate

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The holiday season is a time when families gather, and it is a great opportunity to renew and strengthen family bonds and relationships. But, just because the family is getting together, doesn’t necessarily mean that the older adult will openly and freely communicate any health issues, sense of loneliness, deferred home maintenance , or memory concerns. Be proactive to include them in the conversation.

In fact, it is common for older members of the family to say; “everything is great and I feel wonderful – just great to have you all together for the holiday.” This is the time to spend more than the obligatory one or two hours at a holiday dinner time with your older loved ones. It is the time to spend 24/7 with your loved parent/grandparent. Get to really understand their daily living routine.

Bridging the Gap in Conversation

Sometimes younger family members aren’t sure how to talk to parents or grandparents if they feel a divide between the generations. Here are a few tips to bridge the gap and maintain a quality conversation during your holiday gathering:

Find Your Loved One’s Hot Button: Ask those open ended questions that generate a conversation. Embrace and encourage your older family member to talk about past glories and what they see for their future. Is your loved one a veteran? What was your loved one’s job history? Where did they grow up? What are their childhood memories?

Maintain Family Traditions: Is there a certain tradition that your parents worked hard to maintain when you were young? Look for ways that you can maintain that tradition when you are planning the family party.

Be Aware of Hearing Loss: Just because a grandparent isn’t participating in the conversation, doesn’t mean that they aren’t interested in what you have to say. Sometimes, hearing loss can make it hard for them to follow the conversation. Speak up a little more to include all members of the family in the room.

Reminisce on Memories of the Past: Pull out the scrapbooks or watch old family films to remember fun times that were shared It can mean a lot to aging adults to look back on the memories that were created.

At Greenwald &Gerke Realtors, we want to be sure that you have the perfect home for your family gathering. Choosing the right living situation can make it easier to gather the family throughout the year. Talk to us to learn more about real estate services for aging adults: (844) 782-9674